Liesl Laurie talks everything fashion, dreams for the future and winning that gorgeous crown...
Describe your style in 3 words.
Elegant, subtle and sophisticated.
Who are your celebrity style icons?
I love Victoria Beckham and Kate Middleton, but locally it’s Bonang Matheba without a doubt.
Which previous Miss SA do you admire most and why?
Claudia Henkel. She just has that sparkle in her eyes that makes people fall in love with her from the moment they meet her.
I have had the honour of working with her as a finalist and her nurturing nature is a beautiful characteristic I aspire to. Watching her take the crown over ten years ago made me really excited about entering Miss SA. Claudia and Tatum Keshwar have truly been a blessing throughout my journey nd I will always be greatful to them for sowing into my life.
What is the one fashion trend you will never wear and why?
I will try most things once and if it doesn’t work out, at least I know I can say that I have been there and tried that. Whether it works out or not, its an experience to share with my girlfriends or my mom.
Must-have fashion item for winter?
A few beautiful scarfs to bring my outfits to life.
Favourite designers?
I love local designers like Jj Schoeman, Casper Bosman and Anel Botha.
What is a typical day like in your life?
An early start at 5am followed by a gym session at 6am. After gym it’s time to get ready for the day ahead and my first engagement will take place at around 10am.
Throughout the day I am working with my organisations including my own NPO – The Pearl Project – planning my next event or appearance as well as doing visits to various schools and initiatives, lending a helping hand. Occasionally, I get invited to evening events where I can play dress up and feel like a true princess wearing beautiful gowns with professional hair and make up.
Your skin looks gorgeous… what beauty products do you use?
I take care of my skin with Dermaceutic Skin Care and I always look amazing in public (and in selfies) thanks to Sprout aesthetics and Smashbox make up.
What is your style motto?
Always wear a smile to complete your outfit.
What do you do in your spare time?
I spend a lot of time with my family and close friends. We do “game nights” and our favourite game is Rummikub. ( I am the champion of course). I also love curling up with a good book or romantic comedy paired with butter flavoured popcorn and chocolates.
What is your message to women in South Africa?
My message to the young ladies of South Africa is that it is not about where you come from but where you are going to and never let any situation or encounter define who you are.
You can be and do anything if you believe in yourself. Don’t ever lose the little girl you are or once were as you grow up. Dreaming makes life beautiful and one day fulfilling your dreams will make life worth it. Finally, never forget to thank God for your blessings. Believe in yourself. Be yourself!
What would you like to achieve being Miss SA?
I would love to leave a great legacy behind. A legacy that has every South African believing that anything is possible if you dream and believe as well as work hard to achieve those dreams. I believe my story will do just that, and that I will forever be remembered as the Miss South Africa for the people, for South Africans.
Words of wisdom for young girls who want to enter Miss SA?
Wait until you feel absolutely ready to take on the job title! Don’t enter for “experience”. Enter because you want to be the ambassador of this beautiful country, because you want to be a beacon of hope to the people of South Africa.
MISS SA’S TOP 5 FAVOURITE THINGS
Movie: It’s a tie between The Notebook and Pitch Perfect.
Book: The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants.
Restaurant: Koi – Rosebank.
Coffee Hotspot: I’m not much of a coffee drinker but I love all the Kuaui smoothies on their menu.
Clothing Store: Stuttafords.
Follow Miss South Africa 2015 on Twitter at @Official_MissSA.
WomanOnline